Obliterative bronchiolitis

Clin Chest Med. 1997 Jun;18(2):319-38. doi: 10.1016/s0272-5231(05)70382-8.

Abstract

Obliterative bronchiolitis following lung transplantation is common and potentially devastating. Its exact cause is undefined, but multiple immune and nonimmune processes contribute to its pathogenesis. Severe acute rejection and recurrent acute rejection have been shown to confer the greatest risk for obliterative bronchiolitis, signifying the central importance of alloimmunity in the disease process. Treatment of established disease with intensification of immune suppression has been of limited benefit, so current clinical strategies include early detection and minimization of risk. As our understanding of the disease evolves, it is hoped that effective interventions targeted at specific pathogenetic steps will emerge. In the meantime, obliterative bronchiolitis remains the most important and sinister long-term complication of lung transplantation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Bronchiolitis Obliterans / diagnosis
  • Bronchiolitis Obliterans / etiology*
  • Bronchiolitis Obliterans / therapy
  • Bronchoscopy
  • Forced Expiratory Volume
  • Graft Rejection / complications*
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Lung Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Risk Factors
  • Severity of Illness Index

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents